BIGGSVILLE, ILL. — A rally and memorial service will be held in the West Central High School gymnasium at 10 a.m. Monday as part of the drive to upgrade U.S. 34 to four lanes.

Ralph Grimm, superintendent of the West Central School District, said the student group 34 Voices is hosting the event in memory of a woman who died in front of the school one year ago.

Highway supporters say the Illinois General Assembly needs to approve a capital construction bill to upgrade highways, schools and other infrastructure.

"We have encouraged our legislators to make funding this highway improvement a priority," said Miriam Rutzen, co-president of 34 Voices.

A petition drive to show local support for highway improvements has been under way.